Israel Strikes Hezbollah Targets in Lebanon Amid Rising Tensions
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) launched strikes on what they describe as “terror targets” in Lebanon early Sunday. These actions follow intelligence indicating that Hezbollah, a militant group, was preparing to launch missiles and rockets into Israeli territory.
IDF Responds to Imminent Threat
According to Israel Defense Force spokesperson Daniel Hagari, the IDF identified Hezbollah operatives gearing up to fire upon Israel. In response, the IDF initiated preemptive strikes in what they describe as an act of self-defense to neutralize these imminent threats.
“A short while ago, the IDF identified the Hezbollah terrorist organization preparing to fire missiles and rockets toward Israeli territory,” Hagari stated. He added, “In a self-defense act to remove these threats, the IDF is striking terror targets in Lebanon, from which Hezbollah was planning to launch their attacks on Israeli civilians.”
Heavy Rocket Fire and Airport Disruptions
The situation escalated further as approximately 200 rockets were reportedly launched from Lebanon toward Israel early Sunday. This surge in hostilities has led to significant disruptions, including the temporary suspension of flights from Tel Aviv airport, as announced by the airport authority. The suspension is a direct result of the ongoing military operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon.
Golan Heights Residents on High Alert
As tensions remain high, the Golan Regional Council has advised all residents in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights to stay close to shelters. The council has also canceled all agricultural, educational, and public activities until further notice to ensure the safety of residents amid the ongoing conflict.
Months of Cross-Border Hostilities
The exchange of fire between the Israeli military and Hezbollah has been intensifying over the past few months. These cross-border hostilities have raised concerns about a broader regional conflict, prompting vigorous diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation.
Preparations for Possible Retaliation
Israel’s latest strikes on Hezbollah targets in Lebanon follow a statement from the IDF on Saturday, indicating their preparedness for any potential retaliatory attacks. These concerns come in the wake of the recent killings of senior leaders of Hezbollah and its ally, Iran. The Israeli media has reported that there are situational assessments suggesting that Hezbollah may launch an attack soon.
Escalating Skirmishes and Hezbollah’s Response
Rocket fire from Hezbollah militants in southern Lebanon toward Israel has become almost a daily occurrence since the outbreak of the war in Gaza. However, the frequency and intensity of these skirmishes have been increasing in recent days.
On Friday alone, Hezbollah claimed responsibility for 15 strikes against Israel, and the group acknowledged the death of seven fighters, although they did not disclose where or when these casualties occurred. The IDF reported that a total of 110 projectiles were fired from Lebanon toward Israel on Friday, marking one of the fiercest days of cross-border conflict in recent weeks.